title: Primary or delayed closure for open tibial fractures.
abstract: Of 110 consecutive open tibial fractures 90 were reviewed and analysed retrospectively with particular reference to wound closure, method of stabilisation, infection rate and the incidence of non-union. There were 41% Gustilo type I, 39% type II and 20% type III injuries. The incidence of deep infection was 20% after primary wound closure compared with 3% after delayed closure, and eight of the nine non-unions followed primary closure. We conclude that primary wound closure should be avoided in the treatment of open tibial fractures.
authors.affiliation: Royal Alexandra General Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
authors.forename: G G
authors.initials: GG
authors.lastname: Russell
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Henderson
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Arnett
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000601:surgery*; D005599:Fractures, Ununited; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011182:Postoperative Care; D011292:Premedication; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D013997:Time Factors; D014946:Wound Infection / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents